As both a blogger and a mom, cameras and video cameras are a part of my daily life. I am constantly taking pictures and shooting video and the most important features that I look for in both are portability, ease-of-use, and quality. That's why I knew that I had to check out the Vado Pocket Video Camera by Creative. It is a super lightweight, easy to use digital camcorder. Creative Labs was kind enough to send me a silver Vado Pocket Video Camera for me to review.

I have to say that the Vado impressed me from the moment that I opened up the package. It is so small, thin, and lightweight. It literally fits in your pocket without any bulk. It is the perfect video camera to keep in a diaper bag or purse. This is the type of camcorder that you will use on a daily basis because of it's portability. I mean, who lugs around a full-sized video camera everywhere they go? Not me, that's for sure. That's a lot of great moments that we are not capturing. Just the other day, we were out to lunch when Lucas started acting like a total goofball. I pulled out the Vado and was capturing the moment within seconds! The other thing is that even though the Vado is small--it still has a large 2", antiglare screen and large, easy to use buttons on the back.


Shooting video is literally as simple as pushing ONE BUTTON. That's it. You just push the record button and you are in business! To view what you've recorded, all you do is use the arrow keys to choose the clip and press the play button. If you want to get rid of a video clip, you just press the delete button. Easy peasy! The Vado also has 2x zoom and will record 1 to 2 hours of video depending on the video quality that you choose. Personally, I would rather sacrifice the hour of recording time to have higher quality videos though so for me this is a no-brainer. However, it's nice to have the option of the additional recording time when you want or need it.

When you're done recording, it's time to share your videos with friends and family. Just plug in the Vado's flexible USB tab and the built-in software--Vado Central loads on your computer. From there, you can edit, upload, and share your videos to online sharing sites like Photobucket Box.net or You Tube! The Vado makes this process so easy that ANYONE can do it! Another great feature of the Vado is that you will not be spending money on a constant stream of AA batteries! The Vado comes with a rechargeable battery. Charging the battery is as simple as plugging the USB tab to your computer--so while you upload, your Vado is charging as well! There is even an express charge mode for when you're in a hurry!

So, what is the Vado's best feature? Without a doubt-the price. You can get a pink Vado for $69.99 at the Creative website! Yes. I am being serious. You can buy the silver Vado from Amazon.com for $87.82 and free shipping. Those are unbeatable prices for a digital video camera that you will use on a daily basis. Not to mention that some of the more expensive pocket video cameras on the market do not have many of the same great features that the Vado has. If you're in the market for a pocket video camera, you should definitely check out the Vado!